A FARMER dedicated to teaching youngsters and members of the public about where their food comes from has been nominated for a national award.

Philip Smallwood, of Stanthorne, has been put forward by Eddisbury MP Edward Timpson, as a Community Farming Hero.

Farmers who have supported their community during hard times, raised funds for charities, provided services beyond farming, and helped people to enjoy the farmed landscape are eligible for this award.

Known locally as 'The Chick Man', Philip can often be found visiting schools and events with his hatching chicks to encourage and enthuse children and members of the public in a realistic, visual and tactile way.

Philip also runs a family dairy farm, which is part of the Bostock Estate - itself a family-run concern for many generations since the early 1800s.

The farm uses its website - greenheyes.com - to show anyone who wants to learn more about farming what Phil and his family do there, and how they do it.

Phil is also chairman of the National Farmers' Union Let's Talk Farming marquee at the Royal Cheshire County Show, which attracted more than 16,000 people over its last two-day event.

Eddisbury MP Edward Timpson, said: “’I’m proud of the fantastic farming and growing community we have here in Eddisbury and rural South Cheshire.

“When I heard about the superb job that Philip does to open his farm to the community and the world wide web to share the vital work that farmers do, I had no choice but to nominate him for this award.”

NFU community farming award nominee, Philip Smallwood, said: “I’m chuffed to have been chosen by Edward to be Eddisbury’s Community Farming Hero, and excited to have been nominated for an NFU award.

“There’s a lot of pressure on farmers right now - whether it’s hot and dry weather, or reduced food security caused by the conflict in Ukraine - so it feels good to be recognised by my local MP for getting on with the job and keeping the future of farming in mind.”

Regional winners of the inaugural Community Farming Hero awards will be announced on Back British Farming Day in Westminster on September 14.